Aberdeen FC backs Children’s Panel drive

Aberdeen FC are backing a call for people in Aberdeenshire to consider applying to become a Children’s Panel member before the deadline on September 25.

Children’s Hearings Scotland is looking for people who have compassion, empathy and the ability to listen to come forward.

In Aberdeenshire, 30 new panel members are needed to help vulnerable children and young people in the area, with 500 panel members being sought nationally.

Aberdeen FC player, Graeme Shinnie, said: “It’s great that so many people across Scotland volunteer their time to this unique system. Panel members have the opportunity to really make a positive difference to the lives of children and young people in the community and I’m sure many of our fans would fit the role well.”

Chris Bradford, 51, from New Deer has been a member of the Children’s Panel for three years. Chris is a firefighter and applied to become a panel member as he wanted to give back to his local community.

He said: “I knew a few Children’s Panel members in my area who recommended it so I decided to apply. I wanted to do something worthwhile and in so doing try and contribute to someone else’s wellbeing. I thought becoming a panel member was the ideal opportunity for me as it would allow me to use some of the skills I already had in dealing with difficult situations.”

Chris added: “You often deal with vulnerability working within the Fire Service, and the Children’s Panel is another example of that. I can relate to people in the community through my work as a firefighter, but I am now better equipped to deal with vulnerability and understand how it comes about.

“If joining the Children’s Panel has crossed your mind, then take that step further and fill in the application. It is so rewarding to know that you are genuinely helping children and families in your area.”

The Children’s Panel is Scotland’s largest legal tribunal and aims to improve outcomes for troubled or at risk children and young people who are in need of care or who have offended.

New Children’s Panel members are needed each year. Applicants need to be 18 or over. No qualifications are required and full training is provided. To find out more about becoming a panel member visit www.childrenspanelscotland.org where you can apply online or call 01224 665 107/147.